The chipping sparrow is a species of New World sparrow, a passerine bird in the family Passerellidae. It is widespread, fairly tame, and common across most of its North American range.
Region
North America
Typical Environment
Breeds across much of Canada and the United States, with wintering populations extending into the southern U.S., Mexico, and parts of Central America. Favors open woodlands, pine and mixed forests with sparse understory, forest edges, and clearings. Common in suburban neighborhoods, parks, orchards, and campgrounds. Often associated with conifers in the West and mixed or deciduous edges in the East.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The chipping sparrow is a widespread New World sparrow known for its crisp rufous cap and dry, even trill. It adapts well to human-altered landscapes, often feeding on lawns and in parks. During the breeding season it shifts to a more insect-rich diet, helping control garden pests.
An adult and nestlings in a tree nest
A chipping sparrow at a bird feeder
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding flight
Social Behavior
Forms loose flocks outside the breeding season and feeds amicably with other small seed-eaters. Pairs form in spring, and the female builds a neat cup nest in shrubs or low trees. They often raise multiple broods in a season where conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A dry, evenly pitched trill lasting a few seconds, delivered from exposed perches such as tree tops or wires. Calls include thin tseet notes and sharp chips used in contact and alarm.
Plumage
Crisp, clean patterning with gray face and underparts, brown back with fine streaking, and contrasting head pattern; nonbreeding birds appear duller with a more brownish, slightly streaked crown.
Diet
Eats a mix of grass and weed seeds, grains, and small invertebrates. Insects such as caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers become especially important during the breeding season and for feeding nestlings. Will also take small fruits and buds opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly on the ground or low vegetation in open areas, edges, and light woodland. Frequently seen picking seeds from lawns, trailsides, and weedy patches, and gleaning insects from shrubs.
